Discover Castle the Haar

Discover Castle De Haar: The Largest and Most Luxurious Castle in the Netherlands

Castle De Haar is the largest and most opulent castle in the Netherlands, boasting a fairytale-like charm surrounded by stunning gardens, moats, and historic architecture. Located near Utrecht.
This magnificent estate transports visitors back in time with its medieval-style turrets, lavish interiors, and fascinating history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply looking for a beautiful day trip in the Netherlands, Castle De Haar is a must-visit destination.

The History and Beauty of Castle De Haar

A Rich and Royal Legacy

Dating back to the 14th century, Castle De Haar was originally a medieval fortress before being transformed into an extravagant neo-Gothic estate in the late 19th century. The castle’s restoration was commissioned by Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt van de Haar, a wealthy nobleman, and designed by the renowned Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers, who also designed Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and Central Station.

For many years, the castle served as a luxurious retreat for the European elite, hosting extravagant events and welcoming royalty, celebrities, and influential figures, including Coco Chanel and Brigitte Bardot. Today, it stands as a historic museum and cultural landmark, offering visitors an insight into its rich past and breathtaking architecture.

A Fairytale Castle with Stunning Interiors

Castle De Haar is a true masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, featuring majestic towers, drawbridges, and impressive stained-glass windows. Inside, the lavishly decorated rooms showcase intricate wood carvings, antique furniture, medieval tapestries, and grand chandeliers. Highlights include:

  • The Great Hall ā€“ A majestic hall with soaring ceilings and intricate Gothic detailing.
  • The Library ā€“ Filled with rare books and a stunning fireplace.
  • The Dining Hall ā€“ Where grand banquets were once held.
  • The Bedrooms ā€“ Each designed with luxurious furnishings and unique themes.

The Castle Gardens and Park

Beyond the castle walls, sprawling landscaped gardens and romantic water features make this estate a dreamy setting. The gardens include:

  • The Rose Garden ā€“ A vibrant display of colorful roses.
  • The Maze ā€“ A fun and mysterious hedge labyrinth.
  • The Grand Canal ā€“ Offering picturesque reflections of the castle.
  • The Deer Park ā€“ Home to roaming deer and natural beauty.

These perfectly manicured gardens make Castle De Haar one of the most picturesque locations in the Netherlands, perfect for photography, picnics, and peaceful strolls.

How to Get to Castle De Haar

Castle De Haar is conveniently located near Utrecht and can be easily accessed by car, public transport, or guided tours.

By Car

šŸš— Address: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Haarzuilens, Netherlands
From Amsterdam: 40-minute drive via the A2 highway.
From Utrecht: 20-minute drive via the N198.

šŸš™ Parking: Ample parking is available near the entrance for a small fee.

By Public Transport

šŸš† From Amsterdam: Take a train to Utrecht Centraal Station (30 minutes), then transfer to Bus 127 towards Kasteel De Haar.

šŸš From Utrecht: Take Bus 9 to Vleuten, then switch to Bus 127 to the castle.

Guided Tours

For a hassle-free experience, consider guided tours from Amsterdam or Utrecht, which often include transportation, entry tickets, and a detailed history of the castle.

Plan Your Visit to Castle De Haar

Castle De Haar is open year-round, offering guided tours, seasonal events, and cultural exhibitions. Whether you’re exploring its lavish interiors, strolling through the gardens, or attending a special event, this castle promises a magical experience like no other.

šŸ“… Opening Hours:

  • Castle: 11:00 AM ā€“ 5:00 PM
  • Gardens: 9:00 AM ā€“ 5:00 PM

šŸŽŸļø Admission Fees:

  • Adults: ā‚¬18.00
  • Children (4-12 years): ā‚¬12.50
  • Gardens only: ā‚¬7.00

šŸ“Œ Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the lines and secure your preferred time slot.